Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker condemned a planned Sunday protest targeting Jewish-owned businesses in Rittenhouse Square, calling the effort unacceptable on the eve of the Kristallnacht anniversary.
"Everyone has the right to peacefully protest and express their political views. But singling out businesses because their owners are Jewish is unacceptable and has no place in our city," Parker wrote in a statement on X.
She said no one should be targeted or made to feel unwelcome because of faith or identity. Parker noted the boycott "falls on the eve of the anniversary of Kristallnacht, a date that carries profound pain for our Jewish neighbors and for all who remember where unchecked hatred can lead."
Parker directed police to protect nearby residents, businesses and houses of worship while safeguarding peaceful demonstrators' rights. "Anyone who engages in threats, intimidation, or unlawful conduct will be held accountable," she warned.
Organizers including Philly Bike On Your Left and other anti-Israel groups urged a boycott of Jewish-owned spots such as Mac Mart, K'Far Cafe, Huda Burger, Goldie, Dizengoff and Schlesinger's. Promotional posts described "zio business owners" in vile terms and declared, "These zionist establishments must go! Not in our city!"
Mac Mart co-owner Marti Lieberman told the New York Post the messaging is "scary." She said her business is not about Israel and that she is "just a Jewish girl from the suburbs who started a business."
Lieberman, who wears a Star of David necklace, said she suspects activists assumed she is pro-Israel because of her faith. She called the Kristallnacht timing especially painful.
Kristallnacht, the November 1938 Nazi rampage across Germany and Austria, left Jewish storefronts shattered and at least 91 Jews murdered. Parker said hate "has no place in our city."
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